Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. — Galatians 6:1
Any of us can fall. That’s why our position toward the fallen leader is always one of restoration, not one of finger pointing, judgment and blame.
When a leader falls, it is an invitation for all of us to get real with ourselves and look honestly at our own issues. God is working his gospel deep inside our hearts. He doesn’t want us to have a superficial faith, but rather one that withstands the storms of life. And that will happen as we bring our hidden desires out into the light and lay them at the feet of Jesus so He can do His transforming work inside us.
The Christian life is more than looking inside, but if we don’t look within we will be blind to our own vulnerabilities. Give yourself the time you need to see what feelings and beliefs the leader’s fall stir up inside you. Remember, we all have places inside our hearts that have come into agreement with Jesus and places that haven’t. We aren’t transformed by taking the part of our heart that agrees with Jesus to the cross. We are transformed when we find the part of our heart that is at odds with Jesus and bring it to His feet.
Be encouraged!
Dwight
Dwight Clough is the author of four Christian books and is an active member of Lake City Church in Madison. This devotional is also available via email and you may review the archives back to 2002. Dwight and his wife Kim provide prayer ministry for inner healing / transformation and coaching in prayer ministry. He is available to speak to your group or church. To contact Dwight or Kim, use their contact form. You may also support their ministry.